Ian Lea – Public Governor, Suffolk

Term of office started 1 February 2025

I retired from NHS mental health services in 2023, after 38 years. I spent much of my career as a family therapist in children, young people and families services. I also worked in adult community services. This included 10 years as head of eating disorder services in Essex. I have lived in Suffolk for the past 30 years or so with my family. My last post before retirement was psychological therapies lead within NSFT.

My skills and experience include understanding how to provide quality, compassionate and kind evidence-based treatment within financial and resource limits. I understand how teams work. I also believe it is hugely important to include families, friends and other important relationships in mental health care.

I'm passionate about including people who use services in how those services are run. This includes linking those experiences with commissioning decisions.
I value honesty, warmth and kindness.